Christmases Long, Long Ago
- By: DavidDoyle
- On: 12/14/2007 15:00:26
- In: Prospect/Farwell Neighborhood
Some years ago on my radio progam we asked folks who were 80 years of age or older to call in and share an early recollection of Christmas.
The stories were touching and remarkable. One that I remember particularly was the World War II veteran who sailed out of Seatle on a troop ship. He remembered the hills with all of the Christmas Tree lights as he sailed out of the harbor and wondered if he would ever see them again.
We had stories of ethnic holiday meals, families cutting down their own Christmas trees, presents from an earlier age, belief in Santa, the Milwaukee Christmas Parade on the streetcars and of course, Billie the Brownie.
Times were different then. It was a different world. I think the "Spirit of Christmas" meant something different. Now I believe that Christmas has become (unfortunately) a marketing and mass merchandising tool. Christmas sales flyers and music begin right after Holloween.
Would the world be a better place if we practiced more "Peace on Earth and Good Will Toward Men?"
Could you see it in your heart to donate a present to some elderly soul who is truly alone...someone who has no visits, particularly at this special time of year.
There are several facilities in your Prospect/Farwell neighborhood that would happy to work with you in bringin joy to a lonely resident.
Oh, and if you have favorite Christmas story from "Long, long ago" please share it with us on this site.
Til next time the very best of the Holiday Season to you and your family.....Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza and a Very Blessed and Merry Christmas. And a Happy, Healty and Prosperous New Year.